Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
Frontiers For Democracy, a prominent advocacy group dedicated to advancing democratic principles and effective governance, has issued a call for endorsing a transition to a parliamentary system of government in Nigeria.
In a press release jointly issued on Thursday by its Convener, Mr. Tonye Inioribo, and other Executives, the organization highlighted the potential benefits of such a move, aiming to bolster accountability, inclusivity, and stability within the nation’s governance framework.
In a statement made available to Truth Live News, the group emphasized that the parliamentary system, previously practiced in Nigeria before the military intervention in 1966, has demonstrated success in various countries worldwide, offering distinct advantages over the current presidential model. The proposed switch, Frontiers For Democracy contends, could yield several advantages:
Heightened Accountability: A parliamentary system establishes a direct link between the executive and legislative branches, facilitating increased accountability. This fosters efficient oversight, curbing the risks of corruption and unchecked authority.
Inclusivity and Representation: The parliamentary system fosters the formation of coalition governments, ensuring a broader spectrum of voices and perspectives in decision-making processes. This inclusive approach bolsters the democratic fabric and fosters more equitable governance.
Flexibility and Responsiveness: The parliamentary framework enables swift decision-making and policy execution. Through mechanisms like votes of no confidence, the executive remains accountable, ensuring responsiveness to the needs and aspirations of Nigerian citizens.
Stable Governance: By facilitating coalition governments, the parliamentary system engenders stability, mitigating political deadlock and frequent leadership turnovers. This stability creates an environment conducive to long-term planning and sustainable progress.
Frontiers For Democracy implores elected officials, civil society organizations, and the Nigerian populace to unite in advocating for the transition to a parliamentary system. The organization stressed the importance of open dialogue, raising awareness, and collaborative efforts to drive the necessary reforms.
The group asserted that adopting a parliamentary system can foster improved governance, accountability, and representation in Nigeria, envisioning a stronger democracy that genuinely serves the interests of its people.